Backcountry campers evacuated due to Idaho wildfire

BOISE, Idaho — About 20 backcountry campers in the Sawtooth Wilderness had to be evacuated because of a central Idaho wildfire that several hundred firefighters are trying to snuff out before it gets too large.

More crews and equipment arrived Saturday to fight the Hell Roaring fire burning through dead and downed trees about 12 miles south of Stanley, fire spokeswoman Barbara Bassler said.

Large air tankers were also taking part Saturday, officials said, to protect nearby cabins and trailers. There were no reports of injuries or any damage to structures.

The fire that started Friday afternoon reached about 320 acres by Saturday evening and was 60 percent contained.

Firefighters built a line on the western side of the fire and completed some burnout operations on the southeast and northeast edges, officials said. Crews planned to try to secure the northern flank Sunday.

About The Today File

The Today File is a general news blog featuring real-time coverage of Seattle and the Northwest. It is reported by the news staff of The Seattle Times and includes stories from The Associated Press and McClatchy-Tribune Information Services.